PH Candidate for WHO Western Pacific Regional Director Promotes Public Health in Micronesia, Guam

Dr. Susan P. Mercado meets with Guam Governor Eddie B. Calvo. (Agana PCG photo)

AGANA 23 July 2018 – Special Envoy of the President for Global Health Initiatives and former Health Undersecretary Dr. Susan P. Mercado visited Micronesia and Guam on 11-15 July 2018, to campaign for her candidature as Regional Director of the World Health Organization Western Pacific Regional Office (WHO WPRO).

During her visit to Micronesia, Dr. Mercado paid a courtesy call on Honorable Magdalena Walter, Secretary of Health and Social Affairs, where she discussed her work with WHO and her advocacy in promoting public health in the Western Pacific Region.

In Guam, Dr. Mercado met with Mr. Leo Casil, Acting Director of the Department of Public Health and Social Services of Guam. The two officials discussed the effects of tobacco, alcohol, and vaping on Guam’s population, especially the youth.

Dr. Mercado shared some best practices being implemented by other countries in the areas of mental health and prevention of non-communicable diseases. She also mentioned various health initiatives and reforms that she will pursue if elected Regional Director of WHO.

On 13 July 2018, the Legislature of Guam headed by Speaker Benjamin J.F. Cruz presented Resolution 468-34, recognizing and commending Dr. Mercado for her 30 years of service, and outstanding contribution in the fields of medicine and public health. 

Dr. Mercado is a recognized national public health champion with extensive experience in managing large health organizations, and effectively carrying out health systems reform. If elected, Dr. Mercado will be the first female Regional Director of the WHO WPRO.

The elections for WHO WPRO Regional Director will be held at its regional office in Manila in October 2018. END

Dr. Susan Mercado (third from left) with officials from the Department of Public Health and Social Services of Guam headed by Acting Director Leo G. Casil (fourth from left), and Vice Consul Alex O. Vallespin (third from right) and Fritz Fernandez (leftmost) of the Consulate General in Agana. (Agana PCG photo)

The Legislature of Guam headed by Speaker Benjamin J.F. Cruz presented Resolution 468-34 to Dr. Susan P. Mercado, on hand to witness the event is Vice Consul Alex O. Vallespin. (Agana PCG photo)

For more information, visit www.aganapcg.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinAgana/.